Pinterest is overflowing with DIY Sharpie mugs with cool designs, quotes and doodles, and the idea is here to stay. The great thing about giving a mug as a gift is that it’s something that people might actually use, and a personalized mug is even better. You can fill it with small bonus gifts, or use it as a planter for herbs or succulent plants.

I personalized these mugs with a black Sharpie marker (imagine my surprise finding them in South Africa!) by drawing a monogram of each friend’s name and a picture I thought suits her personality best. Now, I’m not the best doodler, but it was much easier than I thought. I Googled a clip-art version of the picture I wanted to draw, practised a couple of times on paper, and then went for it! This is my tried and tested version of how to make Sharpie mugs, and since Christmas, the ink has stayed put!

The best way to show love and appreciation is by spoiling someone with something that’s homemade. I made these flavoured sugar body scrubs to give away as holiday favours to friends and aunts. They’re ideal as budget-friendly Christmas gifts, party favours or bridesmaid gifts. Give them a try – you’ll feel so proud – and remember to keep one for yourself!